Akai MPC Element (2013)
Compact USB-powered pad controller with included MPC Essentials software, introduced in 2013 as the smallest and most affordable MPC at the time.
Overview
The Akai MPC Element is a USB-powered pad controller and hardware-software hybrid groove production device manufactured by Akai Professional. Introduced in 2013, it was designed for use with a laptop, desktop computer, or iPad via Apple's Lightning/Dock Connector to USB adapter. It features a slim, low-profile design with a brushed aluminum control surface and an integrated cover for protection. The device includes 16 backlit multi-color drum pads that are velocity and pressure sensitive, with each pad offering filter and amplitude envelopes, tuning, LFO modulation, and sample editing capabilities. It ships with MPC Essentials software, which supports AU/VST/RTAS plugin formats and runs as a standalone app or within a DAW.
Specifications
| Production Year | 2013 |
| Dimensions | 11.2 in (W) × 8.1 in (D) × 0.66 in (H) / 284 × 205 × 16.89 mm |
| Weight | 1.85 lb (0.86 kg) |
| Power | USB-powered, no external adapter required |
| Connectivity | USB connection to Mac, PC, or iPad; MIDI I/O via TRS to MIDI breakout cables (included) |
| Drum Pads | 16 backlit multi-color pads, velocity and pressure sensitive; 8 pad banks |
| Controls | Four assignable knobs, transport controls, tap tempo, swing, Full Level, 16 Level, Note Repeat, Undo, Erase, Mute/Solo |
| Audio Support | Supports WAV, REX, AIFF, SND files; 32- and 64-bit operation |
| Software | MPC Essentials (included); 1GB sound library |
| Effects | 4 insert slots per pad; supports AU/VST plugins and onboard effects |
| Computer Requirements | Mac OS X 10.6+ or Windows 7; 2 GHz Pentium 4 or faster; 2 GB RAM (4 GB recommended) |
| Finish | White with shiny metallic fascia |
Design
The MPC Element features a 14mm thin profile with a brushed aluminum control surface and bright backlit buttons. The solid black drum pads have backlit trim that shifts from amber to red based on playing intensity and glows green during editing to indicate selection. The layout includes dedicated transport controls, performance buttons (Full Level, 16 Level, Note Repeat), and a Pad Bank selector. An integrated cover protects the control surface. The unit is built to feel solid and aesthetically pleasing, with replaceable components including pad sensor sheets, top panels, and rubber button sets.
Context
The MPC Element was introduced in 2013 as the smallest and most affordable model in Akai’s MPC lineup. It was positioned as a portable solution for producers using desktops, laptops, or iPads, acknowledging the growing role of tablets in music production. While more basic than competing systems like Maschine or Ableton Push, it offered exceptional build quality and pad feel for its price point.
Market
Originally priced at $225.50, the MPC Element is now discontinued. As of March 21, 2026, used units list for $240.00. Current new retail prices range from $168.85 to $195.00. It comes with a 90-day parts and labor warranty from the retailer. Despite being used by professional producers including Timbaland, Pharrell Williams, and Flying Lotus, it lacks real-time global swing control in playback and offers only one virtual instrument per project in standalone mode.
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